Complexity – Nothing Is Singular

Is anything simple? And, if so, why do we human beings seem to make it so complex?

Complex Completion

I’ve completed work on an album named, “singularity“. And this process has me pondering the singularity and the complexity of life.

When I started, I set out to use only one, single sound (musicians like to call it a “patch”) on each piece. However, I couldn’t stop there. So, most of them ended up with three or even more.

In the same way, life seems like even when I intend to have one focus or goal, tendrils stretch out to something far more varied. I set out to do one thing, but soon I’ve created a long list.

Go For A Walk

Similarly, changes I’ve undertaken to simplify my life have turned out to add to its complexity. As I remove things that no longer serve me, the closet I thought I was emptying, I’m actually filling up again. And each void I create in my schedule, I fill with any number of other activities.

Over the years, I’ve accumulated a virtual toolkit of wise ways to shift my attention and understanding. Go for a walk. Take a breath. Pause and close my eyes. Practice my practices. But sometimes, I find these don’t cut it in times like this.

Especially Complexity

Some of you who have followed along here for a while know that my dog — we’ll call her “RB” — often inspires me. She reminds me to enjoy what I enjoy; to go to the places that are fun; and to show love whenever possible. If ever there was a simple being, it is her.

When my life is complex, I forget to go back to these simple reminders. I become impatient with RB’s desire to sniff, to look out over the fields, to follow the wildlife into the forest.

And yet, these (and many other inspirations) are just what I need. Thankfully, two friends reached out and asked me to go on a hike. We did. And that’s a simple pleasure.